Tennis team preps with state win in mind

LANI NGONETHONG STAFF WRITER

In the too-early-forspring 80-degree heat, Spartan Tennis faced off in a friendly scrimmage against the Wayzata Trojans.

Passionate cheers followed by pumping fists from both sides of the court raised the heat.

But this lighthearted training is to prepare for something more serious: State Champs.

After winning the State Class A championships last season, expectations are naturally higher for the team compared to previous years.

Captain Leo Benson feels the pressure: “Winning that state title, it kind of puts a target on your back,” he said.

The team is taking on the challenge of state again this year.

“We’re making our schedule pretty hard [to train for state]. We’re filling it with a bunch of AA teams.” Captain Maik Nguyen said.

Wayzata is one of their new challenges added this season.

Teams like Wayzata in the schedule helps the boys prepare for state mentally and physically.

“Adding these AA schools can help us in moments where we’re under pressure,” Mahmood said.

The pre-season scrimmage marks the start of their season and a journey they hope will end with another state championship.

Their next match is Apr. 25 vs Minnehaha Academy at 4:30 p.m at home.